LDN Therapy for Graves’ Disease

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) Therapy Can Help Treat Patients With Graves’ Disease (Thyroid Eye Disease)

Graves' disease is characterized by hyperthyroidism or the overproduction of thyroid hormones. This immune system disorder is a common cause of hyperthyroidism.  Many body organs and systems are affected by thyroid hormones. This is why the signs and symptoms of Graves’ disease are so wide ranging. The condition may affect anybody but is common among people and women younger than 40.

LDN Therapy for Graves’ Disease

An increasing number of medical doctors are prescribing low dose naltrexone (LDN) for autoimmune conditions. It is not surprising that a lot of people seek information on LDN for managing the symptoms of Graves’ disease. LDN is something that patients with autoimmune thyroid conditions may consider taking. However, it is important that you speak to your doctor about it.

Research for LDN and Graves’ Disease

Currently, there is not a lot of research in terms of the benefits of low dose naltrexone. However, a small study has observed that the compound may be used for helping patients with active Graves’ disease. There are no studies that show LDN to be ineffective in helping manage the symptoms of thyroid.

The limited research is not an indication that LDN should not be considered. There are several reports of patients doing well after taking LDN. Healthcare professionals working with patients of Graves’ disease and other autoimmune thyroid patients have also reported significant benefits.

Thyroid Medication vs. Low Dose Naltrexone

Most medical professionals will recommend thyroid hormone medication when patients are dealing with hypothyroidism. It is common for endocrinologists as well to recommend anti-thyroid medication for treating patients with Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism. It is important to manage the symptoms while addressing the root cause of the issue.

However, it makes sense if a patient wants to take low dose naltrexone and not thyroid medication. The reason for this is that if LDN seems to work, then the person taking anti-thyroid medication or thyroid hormone medication may be able to stop taking the medications. This is important because many people suffering from Graves’s Disease or hyperthyroidism are unable to take antithyroid medications, such as Methimazole.

Endocrinologists tend to pressure patients into getting radioactive iodine and thyroid surgery if they cannot take antithyroid medications because of many reasons. LDN can modulate the immune system in a natural way and help people avoid radioactive iodine and thyroid surgery.